Start without complex hardware
SMART provides a cloud-based route to licence management and key injection, reducing the need for dedicated on-premise infrastructure.
Microsoft Authorized Refurbisher Program (MAR)
What is a Microsoft Authorized Refurbisher?
The Microsoft Authorized Refurbisher Program helps refurbishers prepare and sell devices with genuine Microsoft software. Learn how MARs and Third Party Refurbishers (TPRs) work, what the programme involves, and how SMART can help your business build a compliant refurbishment workflow.
For refurbishers and device buyers
A clearer route to legitimate refurbished Windows devices.
The Microsoft Authorized Refurbisher programme is designed to support businesses that refurbish computers and supply them with genuine Microsoft software. For people buying refurbished devices, MAR participation is a useful signal that the software has been sourced and applied through an authorised route.
MAR programme overview
What does a Microsoft Authorized Refurbisher do?
A Microsoft Authorized Refurbisher is authorised to refurbish eligible devices and supply genuine Microsoft software for those devices. The programme gives approved businesses access to licensing, guidance and tools that support a professional refurbishment operation.
- Genuine Windows and Office software for eligible refurbished computers
- Licensing and reporting processes built for refurbishment
- Technical guidance, training, engineering support and programme tools
- Resources to help businesses deliver consistent customer experiences
- Access to Microsoft Refurbished Labels, marketing materials and events where applicable
- Citizenship licensing opportunities for eligible non-profit organisations
- Programme and marketing development support may be available to eligible participants
Eligibility and requirements
How does a company become a MAR?
MAR eligibility is assessed by Microsoft and depends on the scale, capability and compliance maturity of the business. Volume thresholds and programme requirements can change, so companies should confirm the current criteria directly with Microsoft or an authorised programme contact.
Typical considerations include:
- A reliable source of eligible secondary PCs
- High-quality refurbishment, data wiping and reporting processes
- Appropriate information security and environmental standards
- Secure handling of Microsoft licensing information
- A strong reputation and proven track record as a compliant Third Party Refurbisher
- Sustained high-volume licensing activity — often discussed as approximately 25,000 units per year, subject to Microsoft’s current criteria
- Sufficient operational scale, geographic reach and financial stability
Third Party Refurbisher
What is a TPR?
A Third Party Refurbisher (TPR) is a refurbishment business that works with a MAR rather than holding a direct MAR relationship with Microsoft. A TPR purchases eligible licences through its MAR partner and is responsible for following the agreed licensing, reporting and refurbishment requirements.
For many businesses, becoming a TPR is the practical way to participate in the Microsoft refurbishment ecosystem without operating at MAR scale.
SMART helps TPRs get started faster.Use a cloud-based workflow for licence purchasing, reporting and injection without building and maintaining an on-premise key-injection server.
Why refurbishers use SMART
Practical infrastructure for a compliant workflow.
Prepare devices consistently
Give technicians a repeatable workflow for licensing, driver checks and device preparation across one or more facilities.
Build trust after resale
Use genuine licensing and clear records to support customer confidence and reduce avoidable compliance and activation issues.
A common question
What if the device already has a Windows key?
A product key and a software licence are not the same thing. A key may activate Windows, but activation alone does not prove that the refurbisher has the right to distribute or sell the device with that software installed.
The licence is the legal right to use the software under the applicable terms. Refurbishers therefore need to consider the device’s eligibility, the licensing route, evidence of entitlement and the customer’s right to receive genuine software — not just whether a key works.
Watch the webinar: The dangers of secondhand software and Microsoft Windows KeysMicrosoft and SMART discuss licensing, compliance and what refurbishers and buyers should look for beyond activation.Watch on YouTube
SMART also helps teams avoid unnecessary duplicate injections and supports workflows where a Genuine Microsoft Refurbished Label is required.
Buying a refurbished device?
Check the device or refurbisher before you buy.
Use SMART’s verification tools to check a device serial number or a refurbisher ID. Verification can help you understand whether the device has a SMART licensing record and whether a refurbisher is registered in the programme.
MAR and TPR questions
Frequently asked questions.
Is SMART itself a Microsoft Authorized Refurbisher?
SMART is part of Foxway Circular UK Ltd, a Microsoft Authorized Refurbisher. SMART provides the software infrastructure used by refurbishers working through the programme.
Do I need to become a MAR to sell refurbished computers?
No. Many businesses participate as Third Party Refurbishers by working with an authorised MAR. The correct route depends on your business, volumes and programme relationship.
Can a small refurbisher become a TPR?
TPR participation is designed for businesses that do not meet the scale or requirements for a direct MAR relationship. Contact SMART to discuss your operation and the appropriate next step.
Does a MAR logo prove that a device is legitimate?
A logo alone is not enough evidence. Check the refurbisher or device through an independent verification route and ask for the relevant licensing and refurbishment information.
Where can I learn more?
Visit the SMART Help Centre or contact the SMART team.
Ready to take the next step?
Give your refurbishment operation a trusted software backbone.
Explore SMART plansWhether you are exploring the TPR route, improving your MAR workflow or checking a refurbished device, SMART can help you understand what happens next.